Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has issued a special statement regarding the tariff agreement signed between Bangladesh and the United States.
“Although Bangladesh has agreed to reduce its tariff to 19% and India to 18%, Sri Lanka remains at 20%—the highest burden in the region, especially when sector-specific impacts are considered,” Premadasa said.
He further highlighted the implications for the garment industry, noting that 70% of US exports are garments. “A 20% tariff will make Sri Lankan products significantly less competitive compared to alternatives. The government does not seem to understand the consequences of maintaining the highest tariffs in the region without offering relief for the garment sector,” he added.
